Tuesday, 25 September 2012

New Parking Rules Could Prove Confusing

New private parking regulations are to come into force next month which could confuse many, according to the British Parking Association (BPA).

The new rules are to be active from October 1st and aims to deal with private property - which will include legislation against the clamping and removal of vehicles. The law will also introduce an independent appeals body.

However, the BPA have expressed concerns that young driver insurance holders will be unaware that the changes are not guaranteed to offer benefits.

The new restrictions on clamping relates to private land, however, there are many instances where landowners can get around this and have the freedom to choose how their parking is operated. This can include parking spaces at airports and train stations.

As a result many industry experts are sceptical and believe that the clamping band will not benefit motorists. In addition it is expected that parking companies may turn to illegal methods - such as unlawful ticketing.

Commenting on the new rules, Patrick Troy, CEO of the BPA said:

"The Protection of Freedoms Act ushers in perhaps the most significant shake-up of the private parking industry ever seen in this country and there is much that we and the Government can be proud of.

"However, the regulations do not yet go far enough. An independent appeals service which is not binding on all operators is likely to be a recipe for confusion among motorists and a ban on clamping is no substitute for proper regulation of the industry."

Mr Troy added that the new appeals service should provide an additional layer of protection for drivers when they believe a parking ticket has been unfairly issued.